Before training camp started, Ravens starting quarterback Joe Flacco sustained a back injury which kept him off the practice field. Originally thought to need just a week of rest, Flacco was kept off the field for a total of five weeks. The former Super Bowl MVP’s absence caused concern for the Ravens, but they insisted he would be healthy in time for the opening game against the Bengals on Sunday, September 10. The coaching staff was apparently right, as Flacco has now returned to practice.
QB 1 is back at practice. pic.twitter.com/0NccRRu5CD
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 2, 2017
Flacco will now have to prepare for the Bengals with just over a week of preparation. For an NFL quarterback, that may seem like a very limited amount of time. However, Flacco as a 10-year veteran has many years of experience under his belt. He should have no problem getting ready to play, as he has faced Cincinnati countless times throughout his career. He should be able to break off the rust, relatively quickly.
The Baltimore Ravens also welcomed back a few other key players today. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley, wide receiver Breshad Perriman, and running back Danny Woodhead all returned to practice today. With these players returning to the practice field, all of Baltimore’s current starters on offense appear to be healthy. This is great news for the Ravens, as the season is set to open this Sunday. A win against the Bengals would be a great way to start the season for the Ravens. It is always important for an NFL team to claim victory against divisional opponents. The Ravens have had issues with the Bengals in the past, however, as that team seems to have their number. However, the Ravens were able to defeat the Bengals at home last season but failed to come out on top against them in the regular season finale.